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Figure 1.2 A schematic representation of the versatility of reversible, supramolecular side-
chain modification and selected examples of interactions that can be employed.
play” noncovalent side-chain modification. Stadler (Stadler and Burgert 1986)
initially investigated these systems for their elastomeric properties, serving to increase
the miscibility between incompatible polybutadiene and polyisoprene blends using
the dimerization of urazole moieties. These motifs have been investigated by a
number of researchers, including Weck (Pollino et al. 2004) and Rotello (Deans
et al. 1999; Ilhan et al. 2001), for a wide variety of applications (Fig. 1.2).
As you will see throughout this topic, noncovalent interactions provide an elegant
means to reversibly control polymer structures on the nano- and microscale. The lock
and key nature, high directionality, and thermal response of these interactions make
supramolecular polymer systems an attractive alternative for the fabrication of novel,
functional materials. In addition, the wealth of available interactions allows the tuning
of the form, function, and interaction strength of the assembling units, providing
control in materials processing. Many investigators are discovering the versatility
of supramolecular interactions for “bottom-up” methodology and “top-down” tech-
niques in nanoscience and nanoscale engineering. Polymer scientists will likewise
realize the expansive field available to them for the creation of novel plastics.
REFERENCES
Deans R, Ilhan F, Rotello VM. Recognition-mediated unfolding of a self-assembled polymeric
globule. Macromolecules 1999;32:4956-4960.
